Reports: SIU for the annual Salukis Blackout Cancer football game, a powerful testament, See more

The 2024 Blackout Cancer Jersey Auction is open through 8 PM Monday, Sept. 9.

CARBONDALE, Ill. — Saluki Athletics and the Southern Illinois Healthcare (SIH) Foundation are joining forces for the 14th annual Salukis Blackout Cancer football game on Saturday, Oct. 5, at 6 p.m. against Illinois State.

Since its launch in 2011, the Salukis Blackout Cancer initiative has provided a platform for fans and community members to raise awareness and support for cancer patients in the Southern Illinois area. All proceeds from the Blackout Cancer events go to a fund that assists patients in the southern 16 counties with various expenses, such as prescriptions, nutritional needs, transportation, and treatment-related medical bills.

“SIH and the SIH Foundation are honored to partner with SIU for the annual Salukis Blackout Cancer football game, which reflects our community’s strong commitment to supporting one another,” said SIH Chief Development Officer Woody Thorne. “Each year, this event has raised more funds than before, demonstrating the solidarity of Saluki fans, students, alumni, and families. Through the Coach Kill Cancer Fund, SIH has provided vital resources to over 2,600 individuals, helping not just our patients but anyone in the lower 16 counties in need of cancer care. Together, we are making a significant difference in the lives of those affected.”

During the game on October 5, the Saluki Football team will wear special black Under Armour® jerseys. Fans can honor a loved one affected by cancer by bidding to have their name featured on the back of a jersey through an online auction running until 8 PM CST on Monday, September 9. The top 106 bidders will meet their players post-game and receive a keepsake jersey. Additionally, bidders and their families will be acknowledged on the field during halftime.

“Our players look forward to this game and the chance to honor the names on their jerseys,” said SIU head coach Nick Hill. “It’s part of our culture to support one another and give back to the community that stands by us, and we can’t wait to see Saluki fans on October 5th.”

Saluki Athletics and SIH have collaborated on cancer-related initiatives since 2008, expanding the Salukis Blackout Cancer program in 2016 to include annual men’s and women’s basketball games. Their partnership is managed by Saluki Sports Properties, a local team affiliated with Learfield, which holds the exclusive multimedia rights for Saluki Athletics and oversees sponsorship agreements.